Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Although cervical cancer can occur at any age, it usually starts in women between the ages of 30 and 45.
Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
There are several factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer. These include:
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is a virus that is spread through sexual contact and can cause abnormal cells to grow on the cervix.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing cervical cancer, as it can damage the cells of the cervix and make them more likely to become cancerous.
• Weak immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or AIDS, are more likely to develop cervical cancer.
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives: Women who have taken oral contraceptives for five or more years are more likely to develop cervical cancer.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
The early stages of cervical cancer often have no symptoms, so it is important to get regular check-ups and screenings with your doctor. However, the following symptoms may be present in later stages of cervical cancer:
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This can include bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, after menopause, or after a pelvic exam.
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain in the lower abdomen
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to visit your doctor for an examination.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Cervical Cancer
If you are diagnosed with cervical cancer, your doctor will discuss the best treatment options with you. Treatment options may include:
• Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove tumors or abnormal tissue from the cervix.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation may be used to kill cancerous cells.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs may be used to kill cancerous cells.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted drugs may be used to stop the cancer from growing or spreading.
Cervical cancer can be a serious condition, but early detection and treatment can help improve the prognosis and outcome. It is important to get regular check-ups and screenings with your doctor to help catch cervical cancer in its early stages.